Vocabulary Spotlight
Acquittal
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A legal judgment that officially clears a person of criminal charges; the act of being declared not guilty.
“The defendant’s acquittal brought relief to his family after a long trial.”
Pronunciation
[uh-KWIT-l]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Clearing
Discharge
Release
Vindication
Antonyms
Sentencing
Condemnation
Incrimination
Guilty verdict
Related Words
Dismissal
Judgment
Word Origin
“Acquittal” is derived from the Old French “aquiter,” meaning “to clear or release.”
Word Family
Noun: Acquittal – A judgment of not guilty.
Verb: Acquit – To free someone from a criminal charge by declaring them not guilty.
Mnemonics
Think “A Quit from All Charges” – Acquittal means being freed from accusations in court.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
Acquittal is a key term in criminal law, signifying a verdict of not guilty for the accused.
Media
In media reporting, high-profile acquittals are often covered extensively due to public interest.
Personal Reputation
An acquittal can restore someone’s public reputation if they were wrongfully accused.
In Context
An acquittal is a court judgment that formally frees someone from criminal charges, affirming their innocence in legal terms.